News from Seattle's Office of Economic Development

The Office of Economic Development’s Only in Seattle Initiative strives to build an equitable and vibrant city by fostering neighborhood business districts that are centers of local commerce, community, and culture. With seed funding and expertise, the Initiative supports local businesses, building owners, and residents to unite around a common vision for their district and work together to achieve it. From business coaching, community festivals, and litter cleanup, to murals, outreach and real estate development, Seattle’s business districts have used Only in Seattle to tackle tough issues, attract new investment and care for their communities.Learn more about the Only in Seattle Initiative.

The Only in Seattle Initiative is a partnership between OED, the Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT), and the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods (DON). Approximately $1,400,000 is available (contingent upon federal and City funding allocations) for district grants and services that accomplish goals in the five strategy areas:

Organization – Neighborhood organizations, residents, property owners and business owners collaborate and work together toward a common vision for the business district.

Marketing & Events – Local businesses are supported by marketing strategies and events that bring customers and emphasize a positive, consistent image of the district.

Business Development – Businesses prosper because they are organized, supported by the community and they receive the assistance they need to strengthen and grow their business. New businesses move into the district that complement and improve the business mix.

Placemaking – The physical environment of a commercial node is inviting and easily accessible by multiple modes of transportation. Real estate development involves community input and vision.Public spaces are maximized to enhance vibrancy and promote social interaction.

Clean & Safe – The district is clean, and customers, employees, and visitors feel safe and welcome.

Attend the upcoming public information session hosted by the Only in Seattle team to learn more about the 2019 RFA. In addition, your fellow business district managers will share past examples of successful grant applications and projects. OIS staff will be on hand to present a general overview of the program and details about this year’s application, as well as answer any questions. The event will be held at the Beacon Hill Library at 3:30 pm.

Only in Seattle Initiative application support is available. Contact OIS staff for questions, and one-on-one appointments in your community. Please contact us as far in advance of the application deadline as possible.

OIS staff can provide support in any of the following areas of the application:

Review completed or partially completed applications

Assist with setup and submittal of application through online grant platform — GoGrants

Share Only in Seattle Initiative program overview and details of each tier

Provide example applications

Review frequently asked questions

OIS staff cannot write or submit your application.

Theresa, Heidi, Mikel, Phillip, and Ken will have office hours dedicated to working with you on any questions or concerns you might have. Please reach out to schedule an appointment.